The Deliberative Council of General Pueyrredon approved a key modification in taxi regulations: from now on, drivers can decide whether to accept transporting pets (dogs and cats) in their vehicles.
The measure removes the explicit prohibition that was in place since Ordinance 4471 and opens an unprecedented alternative for the urban mobility of multi-species families.
The decision was incorporated in the update of service conditions, which also extended the useful life of taxis and remises from 10 to 15 years. Although it does not oblige drivers, it does give them the power to accept or reject trips with pets.
How the new regulation works
- The driver of a taxi with a free flag cannot refuse to provide service, except for reasons of capacity, hygiene, or safety.
- The approved clause establishes that the transport of animals will be at the exclusive discretion of the driver.
- Passengers will no longer be subject to a general prohibition, facilitating trips to veterinarians, moves, or daily commutes with their pets.
Importance of “pet friendly” public transport
The measure is part of a global and national trend seeking more inclusive and sustainable cities:
- Social equity: allows people without their own vehicle to legally travel with their animals.
- Public health and emergencies: facilitates access to vaccination campaigns, spaying, and veterinary clinics.
- Reduction of abandonment: removes mobility barriers that often lead to abandonment due to the inability to transport.
- Emotional well-being: strengthens the family bond and reduces the stress of animals by accompanying their guardians.
- Urban sustainability: encourages the use of public transport instead of private cars, reducing emissions and traffic.
Examples in Argentina
- CABA: Law 5687 allows the free transport of small dogs and cats in the subway on weekends and holidays, under specific conditions (last car, closed carrier, and rabies vaccination certificate).
- Long-distance transport: Resolution 2076/2025 authorizes carrying dogs and cats up to 10 kg on national buses and trains, inside a closed kennel and with a health booklet.
The authorization of “pet friendly” taxis in Mar del Plata represents progress towards inclusive urban mobility, recognizing animals as part of the daily life of families.
Although the final decision is in the hands of each driver, the elimination of the historical prohibition opens a path towards more equitable, sustainable, and animal welfare-respecting cities.
